Ancient Mon floral alms
and topknot traditions bloom
in Pathum Thani province.
Photo: Pongpat Wongyala
On Oct 7, Buddhists gathered at Bang Luang temple to perform the traditional floral alms offering ceremony, marking the end of Buddhist Lent.
Photo: Pongpat Wongyala
Monks of Bang Luang temple delivered sermons before the alms ceremony.
Devotees presented flowers to passing monks, praying before placing them in the monks' bowls.
Photo: Pongpat Wongyala
The collected flowers were later offered to the Triple Gem during the Pavarana ceremony, which marks the conclusion of the three-month rain retreat.
The floral alms offering ceremony derives from Buddhist history, commemorating Buddha's descent from Tavatimsa Heaven after teaching his mother.
When Buddha returned to Earth, devotees welcomed him with abundant floral offerings.
Photo: Pongpat Wongyala
Following the alms ceremony, the temple’s abbot presided over topknot-cutting ceremonies for children of appropriate age, continuing another Mon tradition.
Photo: Pongpat Wongyala
Historically, topknots were believed to safeguard children’s health, particularly for those who frequently fell ill.
Parents would shave their infants' heads one month after birth, leaving a central tuft to grow.
Today, the ritual is performed at ages ranging from three to 11 for schooling purposes.
No family member may be pregnant, and all relatives are expected to attend.
Photo: Pongpat Wongyala
Both traditions reflect the Mon community's commitment to preserving their ancient cultural heritage in Pathum Thani.
Photo: Pongpat Wongyala